Our Liturgy (the Mass) was planned many, many years ago and is the same throughout the world. Liturgy preparation, both seasonal and weekly, is the ongoing work of a very dedicated group of parishioners and staff who work on everything from music and flowers, to altar servers and safety. The Second Vatican Council called for the “full, conscious and active participation” of all the assembly when we gather to celebrate liturgy. To accomplish this, the parish of St. James calls on all of our members to share their gifts and talents at our weekend, feast day and other special liturgies.

It is through the efforts of scores of our fellow parishioners, mostly volunteers, that the Mass and Rites run smoothly in a dignified environment, conducive to prayer and reflection. The work of the Liturgy Team is accomplished by the whole assembly with the special assistance of three groups of people: those who do the advance preparation (planning teams, environment ministers, intercession writers, etc.), those who actively assist the assembly during the Liturgy (lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, musicians, etc.), and those who work behind the scenes to make it possible for the assembly to participate meaningfully. See below for additional details and contact information for specific liturgical ministries.

The parish subscribes to an on-line service, called Ministry Scheduler Pro, that allows us to keep ministry schedules in one central location, automatically sends reminders to ministers when their turn to serve is coming, and enables ministers to request a substitute by simply clicking a button.

Get Involved All parishioners are invited to be involved in a liturgical ministry to suit your talents and your schedule.

In addition, there are ways to participate in a less structured way. For example, parishioners are invited to bring up the gifts, carry an advent candle, decorate the Christmas Tree, or serve as a Holy Week Volunteer. St. James Church liturgical ministries fall under the following umbrellas:

Four times each year parishioners who participate in our various liturgical ministries will meet to evaluate our liturgies and discuss overall plans for the coming year. All interested parishioners are invited to come and share their ideas. All meetings are held in the St. James Family Center at 7:30 p.m.

Liturgy Team Scheduling

The parish subscribes to an on-line service, called Ministry Scheduler Pro, that automatically sends reminders to ministers when their turn to serve is coming, and enables ministers to request a substitute by simply clicking a button. Registered users can access this service by going to the Ministry Scheduler Pro page.